Meet Someone New: Nicole Haley Photography

---

---

I met Nicole by chance while having coffee with another wedding vendor – now I can’t for the opportunity to work with her!  Be sure to check out her website and blog – and read below for a bit more info on Nicole!

Tell me the basics – who are you, what do you do, and why do you do it!

I’m Nicole Haley, owner of Nicole Haley Photography. I photograph weddings and I love doing it! I love the emotion and the little glow in the eyes of a bride and groom on their wedding day and I love that I can be a small part in capturing those emotions so they can relive them for the rest of their lives. I also photograph portraits of people young and old. I love being able to capture a moment in someone’s life and, hopefully, that moment will always be beautifully remembered through the photographs.

When did you decide that photography was what you wanted to do?

I knew back in college that I would be very happy in photography but, for whatever reason, I ended up pursuing other things. It wasn’t until I started planning my own wedding three years ago that I fell in love with wedding photography and knew it was definitely something I could see myself doing day after day. The thought of being there to capture the emotion on the most important day in a couple’s life together thrilled me and once I saw how creative and fresh wedding photography could be, I knew it was perfect for me.

What is your favorite part about your job?

It’s a toss up! I have two favorites. One of them is getting to meet so many interesting people. Between the clients I work with and the other industry vendors I meet, it is so rewarding to be surrounded by all different kinds of people.  I love hearing the life stories of those around me so that has been so fun. My other favorite is being present on a couple’s wedding day and the feeling of capturing pure emotion and happiness which they will be able to look at and experience forever. Okay, I lied, I have three favorites! My third favorite is getting to see the many different ways a wedding can be celebrated. From different cultures to different colors, it’s always exciting to see something new.

How far in advance do most of your clients secure your services?

Most clients get in touch with me about 8-12 months before their wedding date, though some brides have already reached out for 2012!

Why do you think photography should be a high priority for brides & grooms?

When I was getting married, photography was my top priority. I knew the flowers would die and the dress would be preserved in a box (or, umm, hung on the back of my closet door so I can sneak a peek every now and then) but that I could ALWAYS sit down and look at the photographs from that day. And, for me, the most important thing I can do is to capture the emotion that is present on a wedding day so not only can my clients look at their beautiful details for years to come but they can also look at their images and remember, and maybe even relive, the emotion of their day.

How are you unique or different than other photographers?

Well, it might sound obvious but no one else can be me. I bring to my photography my own set of eyes and ideas. I bring my appreciation for the little things in life and I try to bring out the little things in my clients that they love.

When you’re not working what do you enjoy doing?

I love being outdoors. Any day that I can go hiking is a good day and it’s better yet if I can spend the night under the stars. I love to cook and to prepare fresh food. I love traveling to new places and photographing life and the adventures along the way. I love visiting with friends and family and enjoying hot tea. I just enjoy a good adventure!

What is your favorite flavor of ice cream?

Ben and Jerry’s New York Super Fudge Chunk without the Super Fudge Chunks. So, essentially, you’re left with amazing chocolate ice cream and insanely delicious chocolate covered almonds. Mmm!

Anything else cool you want potential clients to know about you?

I would love for potential clients to know that, before I photography them, I want to get to know THEM. Often, people think a photographer is just there to press the shutter and make pretty images but I believe that in order to make truly beautiful images, it’s best if I know what makes them smile naturally and what makes their happiness come out for the camera.